2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Holden Sunbird
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 247 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird.
Because 1976 Holden Sunbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Holden Sunbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Holden Sunbird (436 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. 1976 Holden Sunbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Holden Sunbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Holden Sunbird | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | 156 | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 5044 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 436 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2590 mm |
